Phyllostachys is indigenous in China but is also widely and extensively cultivated. Originally it may have been largely endemic to China, but many species were introduced to neighboring countries, especially Japan, at a very early date. Phyllostachys species are now extensively cultivated in neighboring Asian countries, and several have become naturalized there, while some are possibly native. Many species have more recently been introduced to other parts of the world, including Europe and North and South America, but they remain principally ornamental plants outside eastern Asia. Phyllostachys species are probably of greater economic importance than any other bamboos in China and are used for building, paper, flooring, furniture, edible shoots, and as ornamentals.

At least 51 species: China, India, Japan, Myanmar; introduced to many other countries; 51 species (49 endemic) in China.